Revolutionizing Women’s Entrepreneurship and Access to Capital with Marcela Mandeville

Women entrepreneurs are shaping the future of business, but the path to success is still filled with barriers—especially when it comes to funding and access to opportunities. In this episode of The Business Development Podcast, Kelly Kennedy sits down with Marcela Mandeville, CEO of Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), a powerhouse leader on a mission to break down these obstacles. With a deep passion for business and community development, Marcela has spent over 15 years championing women in business, helping them access the capital, connections, and support they need to thrive. Under her leadership, AWE has transformed the landscape for women entrepreneurs, increasing funding, expanding networks, and driving real economic impact across Alberta.

Marcela’s journey is one of resilience, strategy, and an unshakable belief in the power of women-led businesses. From her early entrepreneurial ventures to leading one of Alberta’s most impactful organizations, she brings a wealth of knowledge on what it truly takes to succeed in today’s business world. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner looking to scale, this conversation is packed with insights, motivation, and game-changing advice. If you’ve ever faced challenges securing funding, struggled with growth, or simply needed inspiration to take the leap, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:

1. Women entrepreneurs still face systemic barriers in securing funding, but organizations like AWE are working to change that.

2. Access to capital, strategic connections, and capacity-building are the three core pillars that drive business success for women.

3. Risk-taking is often misunderstood—women entrepreneurs are not risk-averse but take strategic risks for long-term growth.

4. Revenue generation is just as important as external funding when scaling a business.

5. The business world is rapidly evolving, and women need to embrace digital transformation and AI to stay competitive.

6. Women-led businesses make a significant economic impact, with AWE’s lending programs generating an 11:1 return.

7. Building the right network and support system is essential for overcoming challenges in male-dominated industries.

8. Nonprofits like AWE are not just about funding—they provide mentorship, training, and long-term business support.

9. Traditional employment is no longer the only safe career path—entrepreneurship allows for greater control and financial independence.

10. Success comes from aligning passion with purpose and surrounding yourself with the right people who believe in your vision.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. capitalbd.ca
2. AWEBusiness

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Alberta Women Entrepreneurs
2. Capital Business Development
3. Edmonton Chamber of Commerce
4. Business Development Bank of Canada
5. Alberta Innovates
6. Prairies Economic Development Canada
7. Women's Enterprise Organizations of Canada

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